The abuser usually either is someone in the family or someone close to the family, Pulliam said, because the abuser wants the child to gain his or her trust.

In Southeast Texas in 2010, 99 percent of children ages 2 through 12 who were sexually abused knew their perpetrator, according to data from the Garth House.

The Garth House is an organization that provides a safe and secure environment for alleged victims of severe physical and sexual abuse.

Criminal District Judge John Stevens said local perpetrators might not be using the Internet to find their victims, but new technology has made it easier for law enforcement officers to catch predators.

However, he said, it also has given those criminals greater access to things like child pornography.